Ionéu

Ionéu

Reimagined in a style that marries Greek Tragedy with folktale, Ionéu is a 90-minute retelling of Jonah’s remarkable story that dives deeply into many of its theological, cultural, and historical treasures, ultimately seeking to prompt this ageless question: What happens to a human heart when it becomes unable to give or receive Mercy?

Casting Notice

Initial Auditions: March 20, 21, 27 @ 1-3pm and 6-9pm CST

Callbacks: March 28th @ 6-9pm CST and March 29th @ 1-3pm CST

In-Person: Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture, 2936 N Southport Ave, Chicago

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AUDITION INSTRUCTIONS: Please bring your headshot and resume and a readiness to play.

PREPARE: This script requires a strong grasp of poetic and visceral language as well as movement and some singing / choral work. Please prepare material that showcases your strengths in these areas. *If you play an instrument, please bring it along and be ready to play!

1. 1 minute monologue showcasing your ability to both embody language while connecting emotionally to the circumstances.
2. 16 measures of a song. Please be prepared to sing acapella or to accompany yourself if you play an instrument.*

CONTEXT: Ionéu is a poetic retelling of the biblical story of Jonah the prophet. Ioné, ensnared by the insidious cancer of vengeful hatred, finds himself reluctantly pushed down a path of mercy and forgiveness.

TRACKS of CHARACTERS: 

Ioné (male, any ethnicity, 30s) is a young man consumed by bitter hate but compelled to share a message of mercy.
Uren (any gender, any ethnicity, 50s-60s) – a fisherman seeking to atone for the sins of their past. Also doubles as Égàtî Marauder and ensemble characters.
Sé (male, any ethnicity, 20s) – nephew to Uren; an aspiring fisherman embittered by his father’s drunkenness and abuse. Also doubles as Young Ioné and ensemble characters.
Tigáno / Péga (male, any ethnicity, 12 years old) – Tigáno: Ioné’s adopted younger brother ; Péga: an orphan
Tellers (chorus of 4: male and female actors, any ethnicity, any age) – the 4 facets of Ioné’s consciousness. They also double as Ioné’s memories and other ensemble characters.

NOTICE to the ACTOR: This production requires not only physical and vocal stamina but also an above average level of physical strength and mobility: the cast will utilize athletic and dance-like movement and will be asked to support other cast members’ weight.

SCHEDULE: Production spans April 26th through June 22nd 2025.

Rehearsals: Rehearsals will be held in the evenings Tuesday through Friday with long rehearsals on Saturday, April 26th through May 17th, 2025

Tech Week: Tech will be held Monday through Thursday, May 19-22nd 2025

Shows: Performances will take place over 5 weekends from May 23rd through June 22nd, 2025. Each weekend consists of 4 shows: a Friday evening, a Saturday matinee and evening, and a Sunday matinee.